The number of hatchbacks entering the market has kept on growing ever since 2002, and the trend is continuing for the 2007 model year.

That's no surprise with galloping gas prices, as hatchbacks generally offer fab fuel economy along with capacious cargo capacity. Why go for a station wagon, crossover, SUV or minivan when a hatchback will do the job? Moreover, most hatchbacks look better than the many of the alternatives.

Unlike 'three-box' cars with a trunk, the cargo area of 'two-box' hatchbacks is much roomier, swallowing tall items as well as long ones, since the rear seats fold down to extend the cargo area. The wide-opening hatch allows bulky items to be fitted in easily, making good use of the available space.

Although these same benefits come with wagons and minivans, both of those body styles are larger and not as stylish. Hatchbacks also are ideal when SUVs or crossovers are overkill.

Prices, power and fuel economy

Here's a quick rundown of the prices, engine power and fuel economy of the latest models in this category. All are powered by inline four-cylinder engines, except for the Volkswagen Rabbit, which now boasts a five-cylinder powerplant. Fuel economy is in litres/100 km.

It's not easy these days to define what a hatchback really is. Traditionally, the style has a large, top-hinged tailgate (but so do station wagons, minivans and many SUVs). Distinctive to the hatch is the fact is it slopes down over the cargo area, from the roofline to the back of the car, giving it its stylish look. None of the other three-door or five-door models do that.

Yet some new models that look like wagons are being called hatchbacks by their makers. One example is the all-new Dodge Caliber; I'd call it a wagon, but DaimlerChrysler says it's a hatchback. The boxy Honda Fit also claims to be a hatchback. I'm not going to argue with them -- so hatchbacks they are.

In addition, some hatchbacks are better included in more appropriate categories; cars like the Chevrolet Corvette and Audi TT, for example, are clearly sports cars, even though they have sloping hatches above the cargo compartment.